MMS Mural Showcases 'The Middle School Experience

When Mason Middle School students pass by the hallway near the band room, they can't help but notice a beautiful piece of art that perfectly captures their school's essence.

Cadette Girl Scout Troop 48045 members (current MHS freshmen Gillian Alexander, Lily Gieser, Lauren Mrozca, and Sophia Palermo) completed another phase of their Silver Award with the work of art. Last spring, the Troop members came up with the idea of holding a school-wide drawing contest after determining the hallways needed a little brightening. The girls pitched the idea to MMS Principal Tonya McCall, who approved the mural. MMS students completed the Mural Application, where they drew their mural idea in a blank on the application, and then wrote a brief description of the mural.

The winning mural showcasing 'The Middle School Experience' is designed by Meghan Hartley, now a Mason High School freshman. Hartley's application stood out among the crowd with its seamless coordination of MMS' four big parts: The House System, Athletics, Clubs, and Google Apps for Education.

"I wanted to put emphasis on The House System since it's brand new! I included Clubs and Athletics to show all of the amazing opportunities available at our school," shared Hartley in her application. "Google Apps for Education is our new way of learning so I thought that was also important. Finally, front and center I wrote the MMS slogan, Every Kid, Every Day."

Local artist Jenny Bishop volunteered her time to assist the girls with the mural, and was joined by her daughters, MHS freshman Emma Bishop and MMS seventh grader Caroline Bishop. The Silver Award is the highest award a Girl Scout Cadette can earn. It represents a girl's accomplishments in Girl Scouting and in her community as she grows and works to improve her life and the lives of others. The first four requirements of the Award helps build skills, explore careers, gain leadership skills, and make a commitment to self-improvement.